High blood pressure, high cholesterol, and smoking are among the major risk factors for cardiovascular disease, one of the leading causes of death across the world. These conditions can damage arteries, strain the heart, and increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
The conversation around heart disease is full of myths that can be just as harmful. “It’s not just the disease. It’s the false information that puts lives in danger,” says Dr M Sudhakar Rao, Consultant Cardiology, Manipal Hospital, Sarjapur, Bengaluru. “Believing you’re too young, too healthy, or too symptom-free can be a costly mistake,” he adds.
Many people assume heart disease is something that happens to older or maybe unfit people. “But in India, 40 percent of heart attacks occur in people under 55. Plaque can begin forming in arteries from adolescence. High stress, sedentary lifestyles, and poor dietary habits make younger people more vulnerable than ever. Ignoring early signs or skipping check-ups because of age-related assumptions can delay critical diagnosis,” says Dr Rao.
Also read | What types of heart disease are there and how these 5 foods can combat them
Cardiovascular disease, he says, is becoming more common in people in their 30s and even late 20s. “Making routine screening and positive lifestyle changes is essential, no matter how young or symptom-free you feel,” he adds.
Dr Rao shares 5 myths about heart health, and debunks them with facts:
- Myth: I’m too young to worry about heart disease
- Myth: I’ll feel it if I have high blood pressure
Also read | Early signs of heart disease: These 5 warning symptoms could indicate serious cardiovascular issues
- Myth: Chest pain is the only sign of a heart attack
- Myth: Heart attack and cardiac arrest are the same
- Myth: Life stops after a heart attack or angioplasty
Disclaimer: This article, including health and fitness advice, only provides generic information. Don’t treat it as a substitute for qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist for specific health diagnosis.
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